What is the format of the TOEFL exam?

The format of the TOEFL exam is designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers in an academic context. It comprises four distinct sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each targeting specific language skills essential for success in an English-speaking academic environment. The Reading section consists of three to four passages, each around 700 words in length. Test takers are required to answer questions related to the content, main ideas, and vocabulary used in these passages. This section typically lasts between sixty to eighty minutes, depending on the number of passages included. The Listening section follows, which involves evaluating the test takers’ ability to understand spoken English. It includes conversations and lectures, lasting approximately forty to sixty minutes. Test takers listen to snippets of dialogues or monologues and then respond to questions that focus on key information, implied meanings, and the overall purpose of the spoken material. Next, the Speaking section assesses the ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. It consists of six tasks and typically lasts about twenty minutes. Test takers must respond to prompts by expressing their opinions, describing experiences, or summarizing information from reading and listening tasks. Finally, the Writing section evaluates the test takers' ability to write coherently in English. It includes two tasks: one requiring the test taker to write an integrated response based on reading and listening excerpts, and another requiring an independent essay on a given topic. This section lasts for a total of fifty minutes. The entire TOEFL exam takes around three to four hours to complete. It is important to note that the format may vary slightly based on whether the test is taken on paper or via a computer, often referred to as the TOEFL iBT. Comprehensive details about the test format can be found on the official TOEFL website, including any changes or updates that may be relevant.